A Global Migration

Though potatoes are so often associated with Ireland and the Americas, they also became a beloved staple across Asia. After they were brought across the Atlantic by the Spanish, potatoes were introduced to China near the end of the Ming dynasty. Unlike in parts of Europe, the potato immediately caught on in China, and even began to be considered a delicacy by the ruling family. And it's no wonder. By incorporating traditional Chinese spices, like star anise, into basic potato dishes, the tuber immediately becomes an exotic and alluring option.